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Many people use rental cars. It could be while traveling or even while your vehicle is in the shop. According to Auto Rental News, there are nearly 2.3 million active rental vehicles in the United States. The risk of a crash exists whenever you get behind the wheel—and rental car accidents can be extremely complicated and highly stressful.
You may be wondering: What happens if you wreck a rental car? The short answer is that you are going to need to notify the rental company and work out which insurance policy applies. At Schiller & Hamilton, we’ve got your back in complicated claims. Here, our Rock Hill car accident attorneys explain the key points to understand about rental vehicle crashes in South Carolina.
Involved in an Accident with a Rental Car? Four Steps to Take
The aftermath of a car accident is stressful, even overwhelming—particularly so after a collision in a rental vehicle. You can protect yourself by knowing what to do (and what not to do) following an accident. Here are four steps to take after a rental car crash in Rock Hill:
- Stop Your Vehicle and Report the Crash: Under South Carolina law, all parties involved in a motor vehicle collision have a legal duty to stop their vehicle and report the crash. You should exchange information and notify the Rock Hill Police Department or another law enforcement agency.
- Seek Prompt Medical Care for Any Injuries: Car accident injuries require an immediate evaluation by a licensed physician. In any emergency, go to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency injuries still need to be evaluated. Notably, you cannot bring a personal injury claim for a rental car crash without medical records.
- Notify the Rental Car Company and Your Insurer: After a rental car accident, it is crucial to inform the rental company as soon as possible. You likely are required to do so under the terms of the rental agreement. Further, you should notify all implicated insurance companies, including your policy if you are using them for liability coverage.
- Speak to a Lawyer Before Giving a Statement: While you should notify the rental agency and any insurers right away, you are not required to give a recorded statement during this point in the process. Indeed, before you give such a statement, it is highly recommended that you consult with a Rock Hill auto accident attorney. Your lawyer will protect your rights.
What Makes Rental Car Accident Claims Different?
Why are rental car accident claims different from other types of car accident cases? The short answer is that some unique issues can arise related to liability and insurance coverage. Here are some of the most notable differences:
- Multiple Insurance Policies: A rental car accident might involve several insurance policies, such as your auto insurance, the rental company’s insurance, and any additional coverage you purchased from the rental agency. Navigating the multiple, often overlapping insurance policies in a rental car crash case can be especially complicated.
- Contractual Obligations: Rental agreements often include specific terms regarding accidents, liability, and the process for reporting and handling damages. If you do not properly follow the terms of the contract (rental agreement), it could cause problems. A Rock Hill, SC rental car accident attorney can help you ensure that you do not get stuck paying any unfair charges related to the cost of repairing/replacing the rental car.
- Jurisdictional Issues: Often, a rental vehicle is being used away from your home. Accidents that occur out of your home state can introduce additional complications related to differing laws and insurance regulations. The most important thing to know is that South Carolina law applies if the crash happened in South Carolina. If the crash happened in another state, that jurisdiction’s laws apply—even if you are a licensed South Carolina driver.
Though there are differences, there are also many similarities between rental car crashes and other accidents. You still need to report the accident to the police, you should still seek medical care, South Carolina’s fault-based liability standard still applies, and you still need compensation for damages.
You Have the Right to Seek Full and Fair Compensation After a Rental Car Crash
Were you seriously injured in a rental vehicle accident in Rock Hill? You must be able to secure the maximum financial compensation. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on the rental car company or any insurance carrier to look out for your best interests. Indeed, they fight hard to pay out less in settlement negotiations. At Schiller & Hamilton, we’ve got your back. Our Rock Hill car accident attorneys are ready to help rental car accident victims seek compensation for:
- Property damage, including the cost of rental car repairs;
- Ambulance transportation and emergency room services;
- Hospital bills and other medical costs;
- Loss of income, including diminished earning power;
- Pain and suffering & emotional distress;
- Long-term physical disability; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
How South Carolina Auto Accident Lawyers Schiller & Hamilton Can Help
Rental vehicle accidents are notoriously complex. You do not have to figure out the insurance claims process on your own. At Schiller & Hamilton, we’ve got your back through every step of the way. The testimonials from our former clients and our history of case results demonstrate what we can do. Initial consultations are always free and confidential. Our Rock Hill car accident attorneys will review your case, answer your questions, and explain what comes next.
Contact Our Rock Hill, SC Car Accident Attorneys Today
At Schiller & Hamilton, our Rock Hill auto accident lawyers have the skills and experience to handle rental vehicle accident claims. We’ve got your back. Involved in a bad crash in a rental car? Give us a call now or connect with us online for a no-cost, no-obligation initial consultation. From our Rock Hill law office, we handle rental car accident cases in York County and all across the wider region.